[Jack]

POLICE have issued a strong warning ahead of next week's Carling Cup clash between fierce rivals Swansea and Cardiff: "Misbehave and you'll be dealt with robustly."

South Wales Police reckon they've got all bases covered ahead of Tuesday night's eagerly awaited football fixture.

Inflammatory internet exchanges between fans have been monitored, and plain clothed officers — as well as a heavy uniformed presence — will be on duty in and around the Liberty Stadium.

The force's assistant chief constable, Bob Evans, told the Post: "Officers will be responding to any inappropriate behaviour.

"My message is: we will police you robustly. We are the cheapest bed and breakfast in town. But if you want to spend a night in the cells, it's not a good time.

"Our policing plan will reflect a number of threats that are possible. One of these threats might be a mindless idiot attacking a (supporters) bus.

"My advice to anyone is: you will get arrested, you will get charged, and you might not watch a football match again."

He added: "We've monitored internet chatter, and have become skilled in telling what is idle gossip and what is real."

Mr Evans said the force had gained huge experience in policing big sporting events at the Millennium Stadium. He said: "We are recognised as world leaders in this field."

Mr Evans reassured the public that officers will be on duty around the entire force area on Tuesday evening.

"We have restructured shifts — there will be policing as normal throughout South Wales," he said.

Mr Evans said Tuesday should just be about the football, and paid tribute to both clubs for their success in recent years.

"I am absolutely delighted that Cardiff and Swansea are playing each other again after nine years," he said.

"Our focus, and the people's focus, should be on what happens on the pitch.

"I think it's a golden opportunity to demonstrate how far fans in South Wales have matured since the bad old days.

"An awful lot of water has gone under the bridge."